Bonnie’s Best Basmati Rice Pilaf
This recipe was suggested by a salesman in a store at The Forks here in Winnipeg more than twenty years ago. In fact the recipe is still taped to my rice jar. It is my go to recipe for pot luck suppers and evening meals at home. I have passed it onto so many people I have lost count so am delighted to share it with you. As far as ingredients, if you do not have cardamom in pods you can use ground. I make this in the microwave but it can also be made on the stove though timing for rice will probably be longer. This is the recipe for microwaving so adjust as you see fit. The aroma as it cooks is wonderful.
Equipment
- 10-12 cup microwave dish
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 green or white cardamom pods, crushed
- 6 whole cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 3" cinnamon stick
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup Basmati rice, well rinsed
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions
- In a 10 or 12 cup size microwave dish with lid heat the oil for 1 minute uncovered on high.
- Stir in cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, bay leaves and ginger.
- Microwave on high for two minutes or until ingredients are fragrant.
- Stir in chopped garlic and onion. Microwave uncovered for 3 to 4 minutes or until onion is tender.
- Stir in rice and stock. I use canned chicken bullion. Microwave on high for 10 mins or until most of water is absorbed.
- Cover and microwave on high for 4 to 6 minutes or until rice is soft.
- Let stand covered for 5 mins before serving.
- Enjoy!